Cairo: Egypt launched on Sunday a new social protection package worth EGP 40 billion (around USD 858 million) targeting low-income and most vulnerable groups, upon directives from President Abdelfattah Al-Sisi, ahead of the holy month of Ramadan.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the Egyptian Cabinet announced that the package includes direct cash assistance to eligible beneficiaries to improve living conditions during Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr. Additionally, EGP 3 billion (approximately USD 64.3 million) has been allocated for funding the treatment of critical medical cases.
The measures also provide additional cash support for 10 million families registered on ration cards during March and April at a total cost of EGP 8 billion (around USD 171.6 million). Moreover, 5.2 million families benefiting from the "Takaful and Karama" program will receive extra cash support during Ramadan and Eid, at a total cost of EGP 4 billion (approximately USD 85.8 million).
The package further allocates EGP 3.3 billion (around USD 70.7 million) to accelerate the implementation of the comprehensive health insurance system in Minya Governorate starting April 1, with the state treasury covering contributions for those unable to pay.
Additionally, EGP 15 billion (around USD 321.7 million) has been earmarked for the "Decent Life" initiative to expedite the completion of nearly 1,000 projects aimed at improving service quality in villages under the first phase. President Al-Sisi held a meeting on Saturday with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk to review the new social protection measures, which coincide with the approach of Ramadan.